Your garage can be more than just a place to put your vehicles in Lake Worth. It can be an area to work, offer additional storage and more. But when you’re spending more time out there, it needs to be a comfortable temperature.

Garages don’t usually have the ductwork necessary for standard heating and cooling systems. While you can add ductwork, it’s not the most cost-effective option. The smartest method to heat your garage is by getting a ductless comfort system, like a mini-split system or a garage heater.

Let’s go over the difference between the two to help you find the ideal solution for your needs.

What Is a Mini-Split?

A mini-split is much like a heat pump as it transfers heat instead of generating it. This makes it a highly energy-efficient heating and cooling system for spaces without ductwork. These electric systems are usually placed on a wall and linked to the outdoor unit through a tiny hole in the wall.

Although a ductless mini-split is higher priced, most have received ENERGY STAR® certification for their energy efficiency. They’re also very quiet and deliver zoned comfort, which offers exact control over your garage’s climate.

Most mini-splits allow you to link several indoor units to an individual outdoor unit. If your garage is part of your residence, you might be able to have added indoor units in spaces that are tricky to heat and cool.

What Is a Garage Heater?

A garage heater is more than a space heater. This all-in-one heating solution is placed on the ceiling or the upper corner of a wall. Depending on the model, these heaters can use electricity, gas or propane. They’re an excellent choice if you live in a northern climate and do a lot of dusty work. Garage heaters are heavy-duty and designed to withstand extra grime.

Comparing Key Features of Garage Heaters and Mini-Splits

We’ve created a valuable guide to help you select the ideal system for your garage.

Price

Garage heaters are the most budget-friendly option. The average cost differs due to fuel type, but they’re typically about half the cost of a mini-split.

Operating Costs

Garage heaters are similar to a furnace, needing fuel to create hot air. A mini-split air conditioner is closer to a heat pump, which shifts heat. This makes a mini-split more efficient to operate. You’ll get reduced utility bills if you get an ENERGY STAR certified model. And you may be entitled to additional rebates as a result of that energy efficiency.

Fuel Source

Garage heaters have the most options for fuel types—electricity, gas or propane. Mini-splits are electric.

Heating and Cooling

As its designation suggests, a garage heater is restricted to just providing heat. A ductless mini-split offers both heating and cooling.

Precise Temperature Control

When you are after the most accurate temp control, a mini-split heat pump is the wisest option since it delivers zoned heating and cooling. That way, your garage will be the exact temperature you want it to be.

Space Considerations

Since garage heaters are often placed on the ceiling, they can eat up valued overhead storage space. On the other hand, space-saving mini-split systems are typically put higher up on a wall and don’t need a lot of real estate.

If you’re still waffling Smyth Air Conditioning can help. Call us at 561-533-6066 right away to get a free, no obligation estimate. We’ll review your needs, recommend a solution and get it working quickly, so you can get started enjoying your garage workspace much sooner.